The “secret” sanctuaries of Attica

Just a short distance from the Greek capital – between 45 minutes to an hour – the region of Attica is ready and willing to reveal its lesser-known side, where forgotten heroes roam rural sanctuaries and female deities hold pride of place.

In nearby Oropos, the Sanctuary of the healer-hero Amphiaraos is set within a dense pine forest on the bank of the Charadros River. Here, physical and spiritual healing is top of mind. Besides the usual structures encountered at a sanctuary, expect to see the remains of the stoa, a guesthouse where the ailing received advice or were outright cured by Amphiaraos in their sleep, as if in a dream!

The Sanctuary of Brauronian Artemis is intricately entwined with the local flora, befitting the goddess of nature, life and fertility. In the small adjacent museum, you will encounter a touching procession of children’s statues devoted to Artemis holding their beloved pets, while the remarkably well-preserved sanctuary stands right outside, surrounded by fragrant willows and lacey reeds that quiver in the wind.

Rhamnous, home to the third sanctuary – this one dedicated to Nemesis, punisher of arrogance – was perhaps the best-preserved municipal state (demos) of the city-state of Athens. Themis, the goddess of justice, was also worshipped here and her statue can even be admired at the National Archaeological Museum. The real reward for reaching this hilltop however is the sweeping view of the sea and the ancient city unfolding in the distance, beyond the sanctuary.

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Amphiaraion: The sanctuary of a healing hero

On the bank of the Charadros River lies the sanctuary of the healer-hero Amphiaraos, set within a dense pine forest. The location recalls the myth in which Zeus struck the ground with his thunderbolt, opening a chasm to save Amphiaraos as he fled in defeat from the campaign of the Seven Against Thebes.

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Brauron: In the embrace of the goddess Artemis

The Sanctuary of Brauronian Artemis lies at the mouth of the Erasinos River on the eastern coast of Attica. The scents of willows and tamarisks, the rustling of the reeds, and the birdsong enchant the visitor.

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Rhamnous: Between Nemesis and Themis

Rhamnous – perhaps the best-preserved municipal state (demos) of the city-state of Athens – lies in the northeastern part of Attica, surrounded by forest and offering magnificent views over the Euboean Gulf.